Artis E. Gambrell, Jr. is a highly experienced and dedicated educator with over 32 years of experience in the field of public education. Born and raised in East Tampa, he received his undergraduate degree in Education from Florida A&M University in 1990 and his master’s in Educational Leadership from National Louis University in 1999. He began his career in public education as a teacher, working in both Leon and Gadsden County School Districts of Florida. He then returned to his hometown of Tampa in 1995 and has since dedicated his career to serving inner-city schools of Hillsborough County.

Throughout his career, Artis has held various roles including teacher, mentor, high school coach and assistant principal. He has a wealth of experience working with at-risk students and is known for his ability to connect with them and help them succeed. He is currently the Acting Principal at Carver Exceptional Center and is passionate about creating a positive and inclusive learning environment for all students.

Artis is also deeply committed to giving back to the East Tampa community. He has been actively involved with Belmont Heights Little League, located in the heart of East Tampa. As a youngster he was a player at the league, from the age six to eighteen. After returning home in 1995 he served as a coach, director, board member, and ultimately as president from 2005 to 2021. He has also been involved with the East Tampa Bandits, a charter member of The Foundation for Youth Development and Pop Warner Little Scholars of America, and founded the Fair Oaks Rattlers, a youth football and cheer organization established in 2003. Through his work with these organizations, Artis was provided the opportunity to serve as a role model and mentor, impacting many young people in East Tampa.

Artis E. Gambrell, Jr. was nominated as a City of Tampa Black History Committee Community Honoree of Distinction because of his deep commitment to giving back to his community. He is an asset and a Community Champion.